Best .308 bolt action for long range

[bum8lebee]

I’m looking to get into long range shooting and want a bolt-action .308.
I currently have a Savage Axis II in .223. I really like the trigger, but the bolt feel is pretty rough.

For this new build, is it better to buy a dedicated precision model out of the box, or should I get a standard rifle and upgrade it with a chassis and better optics myself?
I’d love to hear which path you’d take for the best performance without wasting cash. Thanks!

 

[foadlefty]

Build a 308 on a long action

 

[Felchmiester]

Building is more satisfying an you'll be learning from the experience plus you know exactly what goes into the build and how it was done.

 

[NF1E]

It's the barrel that makes the rifle. Looking forward to your decisions. I chose an X-Caliber 1-10 26" .308 for my latest Savage 110 build for heavier bullets. Haven't been unhappy. Have a Shilen .308 1-17 26" on the way for lighter bullets. Whatta Hobby!

 

[Alan]

Building definitely!

Nice set up @NF1E how ling have you been building?

 

[NF1E]

Building definitely!

Nice set up @NF1E how ling have you been building?

Good question. Best I can guess is 60 years. Started at 17 in the Marine Corps and I am 77 now. My how time passes. Whatta Hobby!

 

[Alan]

When you love what you do, time passes by pretty quickly. 60 years!!! What can you say is your best build? Or maybe this goes for another thread.

 

[blueMug]

@bum8lebee What range and what's your budget?

 

[NF1E]

When you love what you do, time passes by pretty quickly. 60 years!!! What can you say is your best build? Or maybe this goes for another thread.

Like having to choose one of my kids. This has to be my favorite project. Bula Defense Systems XM21 receiver with Ultra Heavy 6.5 Creedmoor barrel Topped with a NF scope and set in a JAE chassis. Since the day we went out for a function test, this one has been a sub 1/2 moa for 10 shot shooter. Whatta Hobby!

 

[Jim0001]

I’m looking to get into long range shooting and want a bolt-action .308.
I currently have a Savage Axis II in .223. I really like the trigger, but the bolt feel is pretty rough.

For this new build, is it better to buy a dedicated precision model out of the box, or should I get a standard rifle and upgrade it with a chassis and better optics myself?
I’d love to hear which path you’d take for the best performance without wasting cash. Thanks!

If you can find one. A Remington Defense M24 SWS. Otherwise, build one,

 

[ONE-TEN]

Years ago I started building ALL my own firearms. I started messing round with my firearms (baby gunsmithing), in the late 90’s. And built by first AKM rifle in 2005. In years since, I started doing ALL my own gunsmithing & building other rifles & pistols. Now, every firearm I own I built my own hand!

But a custom rifle or pistol is so much more gratifying than buying one. Honestly, it’s much the same with anything. Same with cars. Building your own race car, or classic vs buying one. The sense of accomplishment. And having it exactly the way YOU want it. Of course, I’m speaking for those with the know how. I understand gunsmithing & building is not in everyone’s purview.

Although I’ve owned Savage rifles since 18yo, I didn’t start building them until later on. This was my first (for me) about a decade ago.


And my current, which I am so, SO very fond of! (Yes, they are both 10/110’s, not Axis rifles, but figured it ok, since NF1E’s aren’t either. LOL! Anyhoo, we’re all one Savage family here!


I smile everytime I bring this girl out! For years I worked for a one of a kind, unique Savage. Oh yes! OP, if you are able to, BUILD the rifle YOU want.

 

[Felchmiester]